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Quokka joey emerges

Quokka joey emerges

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Keepers are excited that a Quokka joey has now emerged from its mother’s pouch and is hopping around its exhibit inside the Aussie Walkthrough.

For weeks the female joey had only popped its head out, making rare appearances, but with the recent sunny days Dubbo has experienced, it has emerged and started to explore its surrounds.

Keepers have named the joey Wir, meaning earth, sky and heavens, in Wiradjuri. Wir is now approximately eight months old and growing in confidence. She has started to venture away from mum especially at feeding time.

Quokkas are classified as vulnerable with the population decreasing in the wild. They are found in small areas of south Western Australia and on Rottnest Island. Their numbers are in decline mainly due to the introduction of pest species such as foxes, pigs and feral cats.

The Aussie Walkthrough now has two Swamp Wallaby joeys and a Quokka joey in the exhibit, much to the delight of visitors.

A great time to see the joeys is at the daily keeper talk at 2:30pm.

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Taronga Western Plains Zoo

Taronga Conservation Society Australia is a leader in the fields of conservation, research, animal welfare, wildlife rehabilitation and environmental education.

Taronga is a not-for-profit organisation with an absolute commitment to conservation and securing a shared future for wildlife and people.